Music Composition

Society's increased interest in the arts is creating many new opportunities for professional composers and teachers. This program will prepare you to be a composer in both acoustic and electronic styles.

Overview

What is Music Composition at WVU like?

Description

The Bachelor of Music in Composition is designed for students wishing to prepare themselves as composers in both acoustic and electronic styles. Society's increased interest in the arts is creating many new opportunities for the professional composer and teacher.

A Composition major should enter as a freshman having achieved proficiency level four on the major instrument, and must complete proficiency level eight on that instrument before graduation. If piano is not the major instrument, the student must achieve a level four on piano.

At least a B average in the required freshman and sophomore theory courses or the consent of the coordinator of theory/composition is required for continuation in this curriculum. Composition majors must present two solo performances on the major instrument in upper-level recitals before graduation.

All interested students must apply to the University andaudition for the School of Music for acceptance.

Junior Preview Days Open Houses

High school juniors: Finding the right path can begin at Junior Preview Days, a series of open houses the week of Monday, April 15. Junior Preview Days are designed to help you explore the possibilities and set your sights on the future you’ve always imagined. Register today!

Careers

What can you do with this degree?

Our graduates often serve as freelance composers/arrangers for various musical groups and organizations. Most further their education by pursuing a graduate degree in music composition.

Possible Careers

Wondering what you can do with a degree from WVU's Music Composition major? Check out these ideas from WVU Career Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Teach or instruct courses other than those that normally lead to an occupational objective or degree. Courses may include self-improvement, nonvocational, and nonacademic subjects. Teaching may or may not take place in a traditional educational institution.
Possible job titles for this career include: Ballet Teacher.

Courses

What are the courses like in Music Composition at WVU?

Major Map

For a program overview, learning goals and course descriptions, visit the course catalog.

Cost and Aid

How much does Music Composition at WVU cost? And how can you save?

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates for the 2018-19 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current West Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Related Programs

What other options does WVU have?

The Music BA program is for students who wish to specialize in music and still have time to explore WVU's academic offerings. It’s also perfect if you want to combine the study of music by double majoring in a non-music field.

In the School of Music, you’ll be surrounded by elite faculty who are some of the nation's brightest and most adept musicians. You’ll have weekly lessons, chamber music coaching, large ensemble rehearsal and opportunities in musical organizations.

Where is WVU?

West Virginia University located in Morgantown, is located about 70 miles south of Pittsburgh, PA. Close to D.C., Cleveland, and New York City, too. Fill in your address below to find out how close WVU is to you.